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The City of Salem is seeking a year-round caretaker tenant to oversee the Dr. William Mack House, a historical residence located in Mack Park at 31 Grove St.

The property housed the city’s park, recreation, and community services department until 2006.

“A caretaker will help maintain this historic building and the surrounding grounds,” said a statement from Park, Recreation, and Community Services Director Karen Partanen. “We’re hoping to find someone who will keep the house up in a manner that best respects Dr. Mack’s sense of community and his gift to the City.”

The caretaker is an unpaid position, but will be given a lease for one year, with the option to renew for up to two additional one-year periods. The lease is $500 per month and does not include utilities, which will be the responsibility of the caretaker.

The historic 2,500 square foot property and surrounding 25 acres of hill-top park were handed down to the city after Dr. Mack’s death in 1895.

“Having a qualified and capable caretaker in the Mack Park House will accomplish a number of important goals,” said Salem Mayor Kimberley Driscoll in a recent announcement. “Not only will we ensure the preservation and upkeep of the historic property, but we will have a year-round presence on the hill, to keep an eye on the park and ensure it is kept safe, clean, and vibrant for the neighborhood and our community’s children to enjoy.”

The request for qualifications for the caretaker position is available at the city's website and is due by Monday Aug. 19, at 2:00 p.m.

For more information contact Whitney Haskell, city purchasing agent, at 978-619-5695.